What is the difference between a Labrador Retriever and a West Highland White Terrier?

The Labrador Retriever is 55–80 lbs, 21–25 in sized while the West Highland White Terrier is 15–20 lbs, 10–11 in sized. They differ in size (55–80 lbs, 21–25 in vs 15–20 lbs, 10–11 in), lifespan (10–12 years vs 13–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Labrador Retriever or West Highland White Terrier?

Labrador Retriever is generally good with kids. West Highland White Terrier is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Labrador Retriever or West Highland White Terrier?

The Labrador Retriever has a lifespan of 10–12 years while the West Highland White Terrier has a lifespan of 13–15 years.

Labrador Retriever vs West Highland White Terrier — Breed Comparison

About the Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever has been America's most popular dog breed for over three decades — and for good reason. Originally bred in Newfoundland, Canada, during the early 19th century to help fishermen haul nets and retrieve catch from the icy North Atlantic, the breed was refined in England into the versatile sporting dog we know today. Labs stand 21.5–24.5 inches tall and weigh 55–80 pounds, with a short, dense, water-resistant double coat in three recognized colors: black, yellow (ranging from fox-red to pale cream), and chocolate.

Temperament & Personality

Labrador Retrievers are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited — they greet nearly every person, dog, and situation with unbridled enthusiasm and a wagging tail. They are exceptionally patient and gentle with children, making them one of the most trusted family dogs in the world. Labs are also remarkably intelligent and eager to please, which is why they dominate as guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and detection dogs across dozens of working disciplines.

Pros

Outstanding family dog — patient, gentle, and naturally good with children of all ages
Highly trainable and eager to please — consistently ranks among the most obedient breeds
Versatile and adaptable — equally at home on the couch, in the field, or in the water
Friendly and social temperament — gets along well with other dogs, cats, and strangers

Cons

Heavy shedding year-round with major seasonal blowouts — not suited for allergy sufferers
Prone to obesity — Labs are notoriously food-motivated and will eat anything not locked away
High energy in the first 2–3 years — requires substantial daily exercise to prevent destructive behavior
Susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, exercise-induced collapse, and progressive retinal atrophy

There's a reason the Lab is the world's favorite dog — discover adoptable Labrador Retrievers on Puplister today.

About the West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier — universally known as the "Westie" — was developed in Scotland's western highlands during the 19th century, selectively bred from Cairn Terrier stock for its white coat to be more visible against the dark highland terrain while hunting foxes, badgers, and rats. These sturdy little dogs stand 10 to 11 inches tall and weigh 15 to 20 pounds, with a compact, balanced build and surprisingly strong legs for their size. Their double coat features a hard, straight white outer layer and a soft, dense undercoat — always pure white without exception.

Temperament & Personality

Westies are confident, entertaining, and surprisingly tough — carrying the classic terrier self-assurance in a friendly, less aggressive package than many of their terrier relatives. They are affectionate with their families, generally good with older children, and possess an independent, adventurous spirit that keeps life interesting. Westies are social dogs that enjoy meeting people, though they can be assertive with other dogs and retain a strong instinct to chase anything that moves.

Pros

Sturdy and adaptable — thrives in apartments, suburbs, and country settings
Friendly and sociable without the extreme aggression of some terrier breeds
Portable size with a big, confident personality
Alert watchdog that will reliably announce visitors

Cons

Prone to atopic dermatitis and skin allergies — one of the most affected breeds
Coat requires regular professional grooming or hand-stripping every 6 to 8 weeks
Can be stubborn and willful during training — responds best to positive methods
Tendency to dig and bark, especially when bored or left in the yard

Westies bring Scottish charm and terrier spirit into every home — find your white-coated companion on Puplister.

Labrador Retriever vs West Highland White Terrier